Battery Pack with Lanyard Receiver and Tether with Quick Attachment

ABSTRACT

A battery tether system for tethering a power tool battery is provided. The battery may include a tether receiver as an integral component of the battery or the battery may be retrofit with a sleeve or bumper including a tether receiver. The sleeve may include a clasp to overlay the retrofit battery and ensure that the tether receptacle remains coupled to the battery. The tether receiver may connect to the tool receiver and provide an electrical connection to the tool and a tether receiver for the battery. The battery system may include tether keys configured to be inserted into a slot and slide into a locking pocket of the sleeve or bumper.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

The present application is a divisional of U.S. Application No.16/828,519, filed Mar. 24, 2020, which is a continuation ofInternational Application No. PCT/US2018/052466, filed Sep. 24, 2018,which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 62/726,751 filed on Sep. 4, 2018, and U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 62/671,141 filed on May 14, 2018, and U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 62/562,763 filed on Sep. 25, 2017, which are incorporated herein byreference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of tools. Theinvention generally relates to batteries for use with electricaldevices, such as power tools, outdoor tools, etc., and moreparticularly, to a battery pack with a lanyard receiver. The presentinvention relates specifically to tethers for a tool or tool component,such as a tool battery. Tethers are used to attach to/support componentsor equipment to provide security when an operator inadvertently dropsthe equipment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One embodiment of the invention relates to a power tool battery. Thepower tool battery includes a housing with an upper housing and a lowerhousing. The lower housing is configured to be coupled to the upperhousing. The interior surfaces at the lower housing and upper housingdefine a cavity (e.g., to house battery cells) when the lower housingand upper housing are coupled together. A battery cell may be locatedwithin the cavity. A vertical axis may pass through the housing at amidpoint of the housing. The vertical axis can divide or separate thehousing into a first side and a second side. A tool receiver is locatedon a first side of the housing and includes an electrical contact. Thetool receiver is configured to receive a tool powered by the battery. Atether receiver located on the second side opposite the tool receiver isformed on the battery housing.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a battery cradle thatincludes a power tool battery, a sleeve, a clasp, and a tether receiver.The sleeve receives the battery and circumscribes a portion of thebattery. The clasp then secures the sleeve to the battery and overlays aportion of the battery within the sleeve. The clasp can move to an openposition or a closed position. The open position allows for batteryremoval and replacement and the closed position confines the batterywithin the sleeve. The tether receiver is formed on either the sleeve orthe clasp. The tether receiver attaches a tether to the sleeve or claspthat confines the battery. The tether receiver can then secure thebattery to the tether.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a tether attachmentsystem for a power tool battery. The tether attachment system includes apower tool battery, a tether key with a biasing element, and a tetherattachment. The tether attachment includes a channel to receive thetether key and two or more adjacent locking pockets. The tether key canmove from the channel into the locking pockets where the biasing elementcreates a friction fit that secures the tether key in the lockingpocket.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

This application will become more fully understood from the followingdetailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanyingfigures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary battery pack with a tetherreceiver, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the battery pack of FIG. 1 , according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of the battery pack of FIG. 1 ,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the battery pack of FIG. 1 ,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the battery pack of FIG. 1 , accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack of FIG. 2 , takengenerally along line A-A, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7 is an exploded top perspective view of the battery pack of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8 is an exploded bottom perspective view of the battery pack ofFIG. 1 , according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 9 is an exploded cross-section side view of the battery pack takenalong line B-B, of FIG. 7 , according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the battery pack of FIG. 1 , furtherillustrating a lanyard attached thereto, according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a battery pack with an external tetherreceiver extending beyond a footprint of the battery housing, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a schematic view of a battery pack with an internal tetherreceiver where the tether receiver is housed within the footprint of thebattery housing, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of a retrofit battery located insidea tether attachment sleeve, with a front arm in a locked positionpreventing removal of the retrofit battery, according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of the retrofit battery and sleeveof FIG. 13 , showing the front arm and a cotter-pin removed, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 15A is a front perspective view of a small sized retrofit batterywith an attached sleeve, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 15B is a front perspective view of a medium sized retrofit batterywith an attached sleeve, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 15C is a front perspective view of a large sized retrofit batterywith an attached sleeve, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a detailed perspective view of a retrofit battery inside asleeve, highlighting the location of securing tabs and sleeve screwsencasing the retrofit battery within the sleeve, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the retrofit battery of FIG. 16encased by the sleeve, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a sleeve secured to a retrofitbattery, the sleeve includes securing tabs that secure the sleeve to theretrofit battery housing and allow the retrofit battery to engage atool, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 18B is a perspective view of a sleeve secured to a retrofitbattery, the sleeve includes securing tabs that secure the sleeve to theretrofit battery housing and allow the retrofit battery to engage atool, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 18C is a perspective view of a sleeve secured to a retrofitbattery, the sleeve includes securing tabs that secure the sleeve to theretrofit battery housing and allow the retrofit battery to engage atool, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an intermediary tethering adapter thatlocks onto the battery at a power tool receiver of the retrofit battery,according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 20A illustrates the intermediary tethering adapter of FIG. 19showing the intermediary tethering adapter first being attached at apower tool receiver of the retrofit battery, according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 20B illustrates the intermediary tethering adapter of FIG. 19showing the intermediary tethering adapter sliding along the power toolreceiver of the retrofit battery and coupling to the retrofit battery,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 20C illustrates the intermediary tethering adapter of FIG. 19coupled to the retrofit battery in the closed or locked position with acotter-pin securing the locked coupling, according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 21A illustrates an intermediary tether adapter that locks onto thepower tool receiver of a retrofit battery and tethers the battery at atether receiver when the tool and battery are joined, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 21B illustrates a perspective view of the tether receiver of FIG.21A that attaches to the power tool receiver of the battery, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 21C illustrates the intermediary tether adapter of FIGS. 21 A and Bthat locks onto the power tool receiver of a battery in a closedposition on the battery, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a tether attachment structure that canbe attached to a battery, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the tether attachment structure of FIG.12 showing receipt of a tether end through a center hole, according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the tether base of FIG. 12 showing thetether end locked into a first locking hole of the tether attachmentstructure, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a detailed view of a tether end, according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 26 is a detailed view of a tether end, according to anotherexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a detailed view of a tether end, according to anotherexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 28 shows the steps of a process of tethering the battery sleeve toa battery housing and using quick attachment battery tethers to attachto the battery in an overhead working environment, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 29 illustrates a battery sleeve that allows for quick attachment ofa battery tether and enables both the battery and the tool to betethered simultaneously, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to the figures, various embodiments of a batterytether system are shown. To enhance safety, tools, and tool batteriescan be tethered (e.g., when working at height). In some circumstances,various regulations (e.g., OSHA regulations) may require tethering oftools and tool batteries when used at height. For example, without abattery tethering system, when a tool battery is depleted and needs tobe replaced, a worker working at height returns to the ground to replacethe battery before returning to the elevated position. In somecircumstances, changing or storing an untethered battery at an elevatedposition may be unsafe and may violate various rules and/or regulations.

Power tool battery tethering poses a number of challenges specific tothe field of power tool batteries. For example, power tool batteriesoften include vent or drainage holes to vent the heat and drain anywater, and as such generally do not present adequate locations forattaching a tether while engaging a tool. As another example, often thebattery is substantially enveloped by the tool, leaving limited exposedsurfaces available for tethering the battery. As discussed in thevarious embodiments herein, Applicant has developed a variety of powertool battery tethers and battery tether attachment systems that providefor battery tethering without impeding vent or drainage holes and thatprovide for robust tether attachment despite the small surface areaavailable for tether attachment hardware.

In various embodiments, the disclosure provides various devices, systemsand methods to: attach a tether to a tether receiver integral with abattery, retrofit batteries, including power tool batteries, to accept atether independent from the tool or battery, retrofit batteries with apower tool adapter that adds a tether receiver in between a power tooland a battery, and/or an interchangeable tether key that allows thebattery to remain tethered or secured when exchanged while workingoverhead, along with other concepts discussed herein.

As discussed herein, Applicant has developed a power tool battery with atether receiver, e.g., a lip, for attaching a tether to the power toolbattery. In such embodiments, the tether receiver is part of (e.g.,pre-attached, built-in, etc.) the battery housing. In specificembodiments, the tether receiver includes upper and lower sections thatare is integral with the upper housing and lower housing, respectively,and the complete tether receiver is formed when the upper housing isjoined to the lower housing. The power tool battery is configured todirectly connect the tether to the tether receiver on the battery.

Tethering a battery with a built-in tether receiver enhances compliancewith rules and regulations while working overhead. An operator simplyattaches the tether at the tether receiver on the battery designed toreceive the tether. The tether receiver can be integral to the housing,or may be constructed from the coupling of housing components. Byproviding batteries with built-in tether receives, such batteries asprovided herein provide the tether receiver without interfering with thepower tool attachment to the battery.

As will be understood, some users have existing power tool batteriesthat do not have a built-in tether receiver. Accordingly, Applicant hasdeveloped an independent housing assembly, or sleeve to attach to thebattery which includes a tether receiver. This enables the tethered useof existing battery packs without a built-in tether receiver.

Various sleeve designs are introduced to retrofit battery housingswithout a built-in tether receiver. The sleeves are designed to retrofita wide variety of batteries and do not interfere with the engagement ofthe tool with the battery.

One mechanism of attaching a tether receiver to a battery includesattaching an intermediary structure to the tool receiver. A tetherreceiver attached to the tool receiver of a battery may transmit thepower from the battery to a second tool receiver on the intermediarytether receiver. In this way, the intermediary structure serves as abridge from the battery to the power tool and provides structure forsecurely attaching a tether receiver to the battery.

In various embodiments, the battery sleeves or tether attachmentstructures discussed herein are configured for quick release batterytethers. Applicant believes that a battery tether design that is fastand easy (e.g., quick release) will enhance worker compliance withrules/regulations related to tether maintenance. In particular, forembodiments discussed herein, a tether end or tether key includes abiasing element to secure the tether into a locking pocket within thetether attachment structure of the battery. The tether may also beconfigured to quickly insert into a larger hole configured to receivethe tether key. The hole is slightly larger than the tether andcommunicates with locking pockets adjacent to the hole. In this way, anoperator inserts the tether key in the center hole and pushes and slidesthe tether key into a frictional fit locking pocket. Releasing thetether key reverses the process. The operator pushes and slides thetether key towards the center hole releasing the frictional fit in thelocking pocket.

The quick release tethering system allows the battery to remain tetheredat all times during use and exchange, allowing an operator to swapbatteries at height. The battery attachment structures discussed hereinare capable of attaching multiple tethers. Multiple tether attachmentpoints allow a battery to remain tethered during battery transitions. Adepleted battery can be easily tethered, stored, and/or replaced withanother tethered (and fully charged) battery while both the depleted andfully charged battery remain tethered at all times. For example, themultiple tether attachment points allow both the depleted battery andthe charged battery to remain attached at a first tether location forstorage, and also attached simultaneously via a second tether locationto a power tool in use.

Battery Housing With Built-In Tether Receiver

FIGS. 1-12 illustrate a power tool battery 10, or battery pack, operableto power an electrical device or power tool (not shown). The battery 10may power a variety of different devices, such as a power tool (e.g., adrill, a saw, a grinder, etc.), an outdoor tool (e.g., a trimmer, ablower, etc.), a vehicle, a non-motorized device (e.g., a light, anaudio device, a testing device, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment,the battery 10 includes a housing assembly 12 having a tether-receivingstructure or tether receiver 18.

The housing assembly 12 includes an upper housing portion 14 and a lowerhousing portion 16. The housing assembly 12 is configured to couple theupper housing portion 14 to the lower housing portion 16 and define acavity, or recess 32, within the interior surfaces of the housingassembly 12. The upper housing portions 14 and lower housing portion 16may be molded from a plastic material such as polyethylene. The upperhousing portion 14 and lower housing portion 16 may be made of the sameor different materials. The upper housing portion 14 may attach to thelower housing portion 16 to form the battery housing assembly 12. Thehousing assembly 12 includes a vertical axis through a midpoint of thehousing. The vertical axis divides the housing into a first side and asecond side (e.g., a front and a back). The housing assembly 12 includesa horizontal axis through the midpoint of the housing assembly 12 thatdivides the housing assembly 12 into an upper half and a lower half. Insome embodiments, the upper half corresponds to the upper housingportion 14 and the lower half corresponds to the lower housing portion16. In other embodiments, the upper housing portion 14 and lower housingportion 16 are coupled above or below the horizontal axis. For example,the upper housing portion 14 and lower housing portion 16 may be coupledat a location more than ⅓, ½, ⅔ of the distance between the horizontalplane and the top or bottom of housing assembly 12. Housing assembly 12may include a tether receiver 18, a power tool receiver 20, a statusindicator 22, a bumper 24, one or more battery cells 26 enclosed withinhousing assembly 12, and/or other components.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-10 , housing assembly 12 includes a tetherreceiver 18 for connecting a tether 50 (illustrated in FIG. 10 ) to thebattery 10. The tether receiver 18 may be formed on a side of thebattery opposite the power tool receiver 20. In some embodiments, thetether receiver 18 includes a lip or protrusion 28 extending outwardlyfrom a wall 30 and beyond the footprint 52. The receiver furtherincludes a bridge 34 that extends across protrusion 28 and forms anopening 36. Opening 36 extends completely through the protrusion 28 toallow a tether 50 or lanyard to connect to and/or pass through tetherreceiver 18.

In some embodiments, tether receiver 18 includes an upper portion (e.g.,protrusion 28) that is contiguous with upper housing portion 14 and alower portion (e.g., protrusion 28) contiguous with the lower housingportion 16. The upper portion of tether receiver 18 is coupled to thelower portion of the tether receiver 18 when upper housing portion 14 iscoupled to lower housing portion 16, such that when the upper housingportion 14 is coupled to the lower housing portion 16 the tetherreceiver 18 is formed in housing assembly 12. When the upper and lowerhousing portions 14 and 16 are assembled together, an upper protrusion38 and lower protrusion 40 align to form an assembled protrusion 28.Similarly, upper bridge portion 42 aligns with the lower bridge portion44 to form the bridge 34 and opening 36 of the tether receiver 18. Whenthe battery 10 is tethered to a lanyard, the upper and lower protrusions38 and 40 cooperate and distribute stress exerted by the lanyard ortether 50 between the upper and lower housings 14 and 16. Portions ofthe tether receiver 18 may be provided integrally within one or theother of the upper housing portion 14 or the lower housing portion 16.For example, the protrusion 28, bridge 34, and/or opening 36 can beintegral with the upper housing portion 14 or the lower housing portion16 such that tether receiver 18, or a portion thereof, is housed withineither upper or lower housing portion 14 or 16. In other embodiments,tether receiver 18 is a separate component or part from housing assembly12. For example, tether receiver 18 is a separate component attached tohousing assembly 12 with fasteners or captured between upper and lowerhousing portions 14 and 16.

Tether receiver 18 may be formed from a different material than housingassembly 12. Upper and lower housing portions 14 and 16, protrusions 38and 40 and bridge portions 42 and 44 can be formed from the same ordifferent materials. The different materials can impart the same,similar, or different material properties. For example, one or moreportions can be formed from a first material selected for weight,thermal conductivity, or other characteristics, the other portion(s) canbe formed from a second material selected for strength, rigidity, wearresistance, or other characteristics.

Opening 36 is operable to receive a clip 48 on a strap, lanyard, ortether 50. FIG. 10 illustrates a clip 48 attached to tether 50 thatengages tether receiver 18 to secure battery 10. A portion of tether 50(e.g., a loop) can pass through the opening 36 and engage the bridge 34of the tether receiver 18. With tether 50, battery 10 can tether orcouple to a support (e.g., the body of a user or a platform)independently from the power tool. This arrangement provides anadditional failsafe should the power tool be inadvertently dropped ordisengaged while the battery 10 is coupled. Additionally, by tetheringthe battery 10 separately from the device, a user can change the battery10 without untethering the power tool or device. The battery 10 can beconnected to the device and tethered. This arrangement allows forchanging and storing battery packs at height.

FIGS. 1-10 show the tether receiver 18 opposite the power tool receiver20 of the housing assembly 12. Tether receiver 18 can be disposed atanother location on the housing assembly 12. For example, battery 10 canlocate tether receiver 18 on either side, on the top, on the bottom, orat another location. In some embodiments, battery 10 can include morethan one tether receiver 18 to receive one or more tethers 50. As willbe discussed in detail below, tether receiver can attach to the powertool receiver 20.

Housing wall 30 defines the footprint 52 that encloses cavity 46. Theillustrated protrusion 28 includes upper protrusion 38 and lowerprotrusion 40 on the upper and lower housings 14 and 16, respectively.Likewise, the illustrated bridge 34 includes upper and lower bridgeportions 42 and 44. The upper and lower protrusions 38 and 40 defineopening 36. In the illustrated construction, the upper protrusion 58 andthe upper bridge portion 42 are integrally formed with (e.g., molded asa single part with) the upper housing portion 14. The lower protrusion40 and the lower bridge portion 44 are integrally formed with (e.g.,molded with) the lower housing portion 16.

Tether receiver 18 can be located external (e.g., FIG. 11 ) or internal(e.g., FIG. 12 ) to a footprint 52 of the housing assembly 12. A maximumcross-sectional area of the housing assembly 12 along the horizontalaxis that does not include the tether receiver 18 defines the footprint52. In FIG. 11 , tether receiver 18 forms extends outwardly and isexternal to footprint 52. For example, tether receiver 18 extends awayfrom the housing wall 30 defining the maximum cross-sectional area alongthe horizontal axis. In FIG. 12 , tether receiver 18 is formed internalto footprint 52. The cross-sectional area encircled by the housingassembly 12 along the horizontal axis defines an external housing wall30 of the housing assembly 12 that envelopes the internally formedtether receiver 18. Housing wall 30 can include a recessed portionextending inwardly to form a recess 32 for tether receiver 18 and/oropening 36. A bridge 34 can extend across recess 32 to create opening 36and/or bridge 34 internal to footprint 52. In some embodiments, tetherreceiver 18 is formed within a recess 32 of footprint 52 defined by theouter housing wall 30. The outer footprint 52 of the housing assembly 12may enclose the tether receiver 18 within a recess 32 of the housingwall 30. In other embodiments, the tether receiver 18 is formed outside,or external to, the outer footprint 52 defined by the housing walls 30.

Opening 36 does not communicate with cavity 46 to inhibit or preventdust and debris from entering cavity 46. Opening 36 can be formedentirely within an external protrusion 28 that extends outwardly fromhousing assembly 12 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11 ). In some embodiments,footprint 52 extends away from housing wall 30 to form the protrusion 28with opening 36 between the protrusion 28 and the wall 30. In otherembodiments, bridge 34 with an opening 36 is formed internally within arecess 32 of housing wall 30. The bridge 34 or extends across an opening36 formed within recess 32 of the outer housing wall 30. The recess 32is formed within a footprint 52 inside the outer housing wall 30.

In some embodiments, the tether receiver 18 adjusts or moves relative tohousing assembly 12. For example, tether receiver 18 may move to anattachment condition (similar to that shown in FIGS. 1-12 ), in whichtether receiver 18 is available for attachment of tether 50. When not inuse, tether receiver 18 can adjust to a storage condition, notengageable by tether 50. In this configuration, tether receiver 18 maynot interfere with or obstruct use of the battery 10. For example,tether receiver 18 may extend beyond a footprint 52 of housing assembly12 to receive a tether 50. Tether receiver 18 can retract, e.g., to aposition within footprint 52 for storage. Tether receiver 18 may adjustbetween an extended or retracted position. In some embodiments theretracted position is covered to store battery 10 and the extractedposition is uncovered to receive tether 50.

Housing assembly 12 can include a power tool receiver 20 that attaches apower tool or device. Power tool receiver 20 can include an electricalcontact located on a top, bottom, or side of the housing. For example,power tool receiver 20 can use electrical contacts to transmit powerform the battery 10 to a power tool or device. Power tool receiver 20 isconfigured to receive and power a tool by supplying electrical currentand voltage from battery 10 to the tool or device. Power tool receiver20 may have a standard shape or form for attaching a variety ofdifferent power tools (e.g., a proprietary standard design). Power toolreceiver 20 may have a different shape for different batteries 10, forexample, so that a 18 V battery cell 26 is not configured to attach to a12 V tool. Power tool receiver 20 is illustrated on a top surface ofhousing assembly 12 but may be disposed on a side, bottom, front, orback. Power tool receiver 20 can be located to avoid interfering withtether receiver 18. As illustrated, tether receiver 18 and power toolreceiver 20 are located on opposite sides. Power tool receiver 20 andtether receiver 18 may be disposed on the same or similar sides ofhousing assembly 12. For example and as described in greater detailbelow, power tool receiver 20 may connect to an intermediary tetheradapter 92 that provides a lanyard attachment location and alsotransmits electrical power to a power tool coupled to the intermediarytether adapter 92. In some embodiments, access to power tool receiver 20enables switching batteries 10 to a power tool while each battery 10remains tethered to a tether receiver 18.

FIGS. 1-2 illustrate a power indicator or status indicator 22 on housingassembly 12 that indicates battery 10 information (e.g., a powerindicator showing remaining capacity or charge). Status indicator 22 maybe displayed on a front sloping face of upper housing portion 14, asillustrated. In some embodiments, status indicator 22 is housed on aside, front, back, top, or bottom of battery 10. Status indicator 22 mayinclude a power indicator that displays the amount of power available inthe battery. Status indicator 22 may display battery 10 information onupper housing portion 14 or lower housing portion 16, or in a locationcaptured between upper and lower housings 14 and 16.

Status indicator 22 may include lights, indicators, LCD displays,touch-enabled user interfaces, or other displays to communicate orreceive battery 10 information. For example, an operator may put abattery 10 in sleep mode while not in use to preserve charge. Operatormay select a lower power setting to increase the time available tooperate a tool or input other information through status indicator 22.Status indicator 22 may display an estimated number of hours, minutes,or seconds of remaining charge. Status indicator 22 may indicate whenthe battery is fully charged (e.g., display a green light), nearlydepleted (e.g., orange light), and depleted (e.g., red light).

The housing assembly 12 can further include a bumper 24 attachable tothe lower housing portion 16. Bumper 24 may protect battery 10 and/orprovide a tether receiver 18 location to a battery 10. Bumper 24 mayattach to a side opposite the power tool receiver 20 as illustrated.Bumper 24 may provide a sleeve-like fit over battery 10 (e.g., coveringthe base and all four sides) or may cover the base and bottom corners ofbattery 10. Bumper 24 may connect to a feature on battery 10 (e.g.,protrusion 28) to secure bumper 24 to battery 10. Bumper 24 can protectbattery 10 if the power tool and/or battery 10 falls. Bumper 24 protectsthe housing assembly 12 with a layer of resilient material.

Bumper 24 may be retrofit to attach a tether 50 to existing batteries10, e.g., without a tether receiver 18. Bumper 24 may include a tetherreceiver 18. Bumper 24 may have a universal design to attach to anypower tool battery 10. Bumper 24 may have a mesh design or include solidshapes. Materials for bumper 24 include plastics, rubber, naturalrubber, vulcanized rubber, polyisoprene, sytrene-butadiene rubber,ethylene propylene EPDM, butylrubber, polyurethane, neoprene,polychloroprene, hydrogenated nitrile Hnbr/Hsn, hypalonchlorosulphonated polyethylene CSM, elastics, fabric, or othermaterials.

Cavity 46 of the housing assembly 12 supports one or more battery cells26. Battery cells 26 may be rechargeable. Cells 26 include anidentification number, chemistry, electrical connection, and/or otherproperties to provide a desired output performance for power toolbattery 10. Cells 26 may be lithium-ion LIB based or includeintercalated lithium ions. Other anodes and/or cathodes may be used suchas NiCd and NiMH. The cells 26 may be connected in series, parallel, oruse a combination of series and parallel electrical connections. Thecells 26 may be selected to provide a specific output voltage, current,or capacity. A series of cells 26 may combine into a terminal block (notshown). The terminal block may include terminals of cells 26 supportedby the housing assembly 12 and operable to electrically connect thebattery cell(s) 26 to the device to be powered. In this application, theterminal block will be referred to simply as a battery cell 26.

Cells 26 may connect to housing assembly 12 through a frame 56. Frame 56may ensure that cells 26 are stationary inside housing assembly 12 whenthe battery 10 is moved, rotated, or otherwise used with a power tool.Frame 56 may provide structural support to housing assembly 12 or tetherreceiver 18. For example, upper housing portion 14 may be secured tolower housing portion 16 through a frame 56 that stores and secures oneor more cells 26 (e.g., of a lithium ion battery). As shown in FIG. 7 ,frame 54 provides structural support to the attachment structure ofbattery 10 housing assembly 12. Frame 56 can provide electricalconnections (e.g., from cells 26 to power tool receiver 20 and/or fromone cell 26 to an adjacent cell 26).

Retrofit Battery With Attached Tether Receiver

An operator may need to retrofit a power tool and/or battery without abuilt-in tether receiver 18. Rules and regulations may require tetheringeach battery at all times, e.g., while working at height. Existingbatteries may need to add a tether receiver 18 in order to have alanyard attachment location and to comply with rules and regulations. Anexisting battery with attached tether receiver18 is a retrofit battery60. Applicant has found a system to attach a tether 50 to a retrofitbattery 60 without an integral tether receiver 18.

FIG. 13 illustrates a retrofit battery 60 with a sleeve 62, shown as abattery cradle or sleeve 62, attached. Retrofit battery 60 may be thesame as or similar to battery 10 described above, except that retrofitbattery 60 may not have an integral tether receiver 18. In someembodiments, sleeve 62 is the same or substantially the same as bumper24 described above. Sleeve 62 is configured to receive the retrofitbattery 60 and circumscribe a portion of the retrofit battery 60. FIG.14 illustrates the component parts that attach sleeve 62 to the retrofitbattery 60. FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate a retrofit battery 60. Retrofitbattery 60 may fit within sleeve 62 to provide a tether receiver, shownas retrofit tether receiver 64, to attach tether 50. As illustrated,sleeve 62 includes retrofit tether receiver 64 and a clasp or front arm66 attached to the sleeve 62 with a pin 68 that overlays and constrainsretrofit battery 60.

The clasp or front arm 66 secures sleeve 62 to the battery and overlaysa portion of retrofit battery 60 within the sleeve 62. Front arm 66 canmove from an open position to a closed position. For example, front arm66 can rotate about pin 68 to an open or closed position or may beopened by removing pin 68. In the open position, retrofit battery 60 canbe removed and replaced within sleeve 62. In the closed position, frontarm 66 constrains retrofit battery 60 and prevents accidental removal ofretrofit battery 60 from sleeve 62. Sleeve 62 and/or front arm 66confine retrofit battery 60 to provide a retrofit tether receiver 64 fortether 50 attachment to the retrofit battery 60. Sleeve 62 and/or frontarm 66 can include loops, hooks, cavities, openings 36, quick tetherattachments, and/or other attachment locations. Tethering sleeve 62ensures the coupled retrofit battery 60 is secured to a tether 50. Insome embodiments, the pin 68 constrains the front arm 66 and forms aretrofit tether receiver 64, e.g., for attachment of tether 50 to pin68.

FIGS. 15A-C illustrate one embodiment of an attached or coupled sleeve62. FIG. 15A illustrates a comparatively small retrofit battery 60 withsecured sleeve 62. As illustrated, securing protrusions 70 orprotrusions overlap a portion of retrofit battery 60 and ensure thatsleeve 62 encloses at least a portion of retrofit battery 60, based onthe retrofit battery 60 size. For example, sleeve 62 includes securingprotrusions 70 that attach to a top surface of retrofit battery 60 tosecure a retrofit tether receiver 64 on retrofit battery 60 withoutinterfering with power tool receiver 72 or other retrofit battery 60components (e.g., status indicator 76). In some embodiments, sleeve 62may comprise two or more parts secured together via screws 74, oranother securing mechanism. For example, clips 48, bolts, snaps,hook-and-loop fasteners, or other attachments may secure one part of thesleeve 62 to another part. In some embodiments, an operator may tightenor loosen screws 74, thus securing or loosening the sleeve 62, but maynot remove the screws 74 from the sleeve 62. In some embodiments, thescrews 74 are designed to be hand fastened, so that no tools arerequired to secure sleeve 62 to retrofit battery 60. In someembodiments, sleeve 62 is an integrated single component that isstretched over retrofit battery 60 so that no fasteners or attachmentsare required to fit sleeve 62 to retrofit battery 60.

FIG. 15B illustrates a second embodiment of a sleeve 62 configured tohouse a medium sized retrofit battery 60. The sleeve 62 of FIG. 15B maybe similar to the sleeve 62 of FIG. 15A except the sleeve 62 of FIG. 15Bis configured for a medium sized retrofit battery 60. Similar to theembodiment of FIG. 15A, the sleeve 62 include securing protrusions 70and screws 74 to attach a retrofit tether receiver 64 to the mediumsized retrofit battery 60. Sleeve 62 may be a single integrated part ormay include two or more component parts joined, assembled, or tightenedby screws 74.

FIG. 15C illustrates a third embodiment of a sleeve 62 for a largeretrofit battery 60. FIG. 15C may be similar to the sleeve 62 of FIGS.15A-B, except the sleeve 62 of FIG. 15C is configured for a largeretrofit battery 60. Similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 15A and B,sleeve 62 includes securing protrusions 70 and screws 74 that attach theretrofit tether receiver 64 to the large sized retrofit battery 60.FIGS. 15A-C illustrate two main functions of sleeve 62 for all sizedbatteries: (1) to protect the retrofit battery 60 and (2) to provide aretrofit tether receiver 64 to the housing assembly 12. Sleeve 62 ofFIGS. 15A-C can be the same as or substantially similar to bumper 24 asdescribed above. As illustrated in FIG. A-C, retrofit tether receivers64 disposed on sleeve 62 can include attachment locations for loops,hooks, clips 48, carabiners, hook-and-loop fasteners, quick releasetethers (e.g., as described in detail below), and/or other attachments.

FIG. 16 is a front prospective view of retrofit battery 60 with attachedsleeve 62. From this perspective, screws 74 are shown to attach, fasten,and/or tighten a front part 82 of sleeve 62 to a rear part 84 of sleeve62. Sleeve 62 has a front part 82 coupled to a rear part 84 at orrelative to the vertical axis of housing assembly 12. For example, frontpart 82 may couple to rear part 84 at the vertical axis or at or morethan ⅓, ½, or ⅔ of the distance between the vertical axis and a front orrear of housing assembly 12. As illustrated, a second or side tetherreceiver 78 attachment may be included on a side of sleeve 62. In someembodiments, sleeve 62 may have one or more side tether receivers 78 oneither or both sides. FIG. 17 illustrates a rear tether receiver 80providing another location to attach a lanyard or tether 50 to thesleeve 62.

FIG. 18 illustrates three embodiments of a screw 74 or tab 86 thatcreates a joint configured to attach a tether receiver to a slot 88(e.g., in a Milwaukee Tool M12 battery). There is a slot 88 in theretrofit battery 60 housing assembly 12 that allows screws 74 and/orsecuring tabs 86 to move along slot 88 and lock in a friction fit withinslot 88. Slots 88 cooperate with the power tool receiver 90 to couple toa power tool and permit access for securing tabs 86 or screws 74 tosecure a sleeve 62 to retrofit battery 60. In the illustratedembodiment, the sleeve 62 sits on the bottom or a base of retrofitbattery 60. The sleeve 62 is secured by sliding a screw 74 or tab 86through slot 88 into a locking position within the slot 88. Sleeve 62includes a retrofit tether receiver 64 (e.g., on the bottom or base) andprovides an attachment location for a tether 50. Sleeve 62 can beconfigured to fit on other retrofit batteries 60. In this way, sleeve 62can add a tether receiver 64 to a battery with limited access when theretrofit power tool receiver 94 is inserted into a tool.

Intermediary Tether Adapters Connected to the Power Tool Receiver

FIG. 19 illustrates another embodiment for connecting a tether receiver64 to a retrofit battery 60. In some embodiments, a tether receiver 64can be coupled to a retrofit battery 60 at the power tool receiver 72 ofthe housing assembly 12. For example, an intermediary structure, orintermediary tether adapter 92 can connect to the power tool receiver 72of the retrofit battery 60 to provide a tether receiver 64 andcommunicate electrical power to a power tool or device. In this way,secure attachment of the intermediary tether adapter 92 to the powertool receiver 72 of the housing assembly 12 ensures that the tetherreceiver 64 provides a secure tether attachment point to secure theretrofit battery 60.

Intermediary tether adapter 92 can connect directly to power toolreceiver 72 and transmit the electrical power to the tool. This enablesthe intermediary tether adapter 92 to securely attach a retrofit tetherreceiver 64 to the power tool receiver 72. The battery-power toolengagement system at the power tool receiver 72 provides a securelocation to attach a retrofit tether receiver 64 and attach a tether 50to the retrofit battery 60. Intermediary tether adapter 92 includes asecond or retrofit power tool receiver 94 to attach the power tool tothe intermediary structure. The intermediary tether adapter 92communicates electrical power from the retrofit battery 60 at the firstpower tool receiver 72 to the retrofit power tool receiver 94 attachedto the power tool or device. As illustrated in FIGS. 19-21 (e.g.., withreference to a Milwaukee Tool M18 battery platform), intermediary tetheradapter 92 can connect or disconnect from retrofit battery 60 in thesame way as a power tool. Using the intermediary tether adapter 92 as anintermediary between the retrofit battery 60 and the power tool enablesthe transmission of electrical power to the power tool while securing atether location to the retrofit battery 60.

FIGS. 20A-C illustrate the process of engaging an intermediary tetheradapter 92 to a retrofit battery 60, according to one embodiment. FIG.20A shows an intermediary tether adapter 92 sliding onto the power toolreceiver 72 (covered and not shown) of the retrofit battery 60. As theintermediary tether adapter 92 is slid onto the power tool receiver 72,the gap between the adapter and the battery decreases as illustratedfrom FIG. 20A to FIG. 20B. Intermediary tether adapter 92 locks onto thepower tool receiver 72 of retrofit battery 60. Front arm 66 can rotatedown to lock the intermediary tether adapter 92 onto retrofit battery60, as illustrated in FIG. 20C. Intermediary tether adapter 92 can lockon retrofit battery 60 to provide a retrofit tether receiver 64 andcommunicate power to the retrofit power tool receiver 94.

FIGS. 21A-C illustrate different views of another embodiment of anintermediary tether adapter 92 installed on a retrofit battery 60. Theintermediary tether adapter 92 body slides onto the rails of anengagement system of power tool receiver 72. When secured, the lockingdevice on the intermediary tether adapter 92 is engaged. A hinged frontarm 66 is pressed down against the front of the retrofit battery 60 tolock the device and prevent the hinged front arm 66 from opening. Frontarm 66 prevents the intermediary tether adapter 92 from sliding offretrofit battery 60. Intermediary tether adapter 92 can be configured toconnect to the engagement system of any power tool receiver 72 orhousing assembly 12.

Tether-Battery Attachment System

FIGS. 22-24 illustrate a quick-connect tether-battery attachment system100 with tether attachment structure 102. Tether attachment structureincludes an insertion slot 106 connected to locking locations or lockingpockets 104 and 105 via a channel. Tether attachment structure 102 maybe integral with battery housing or may be attached or coupled to thebattery housing. Tether attachment structure 102 can attach to a batteryhousing assembly 12, a bumper 24, a battery sleeve 62, an intermediarytether adapter 92, or a battery 10, 60 housing assembly 12 (e.g., abattery base). For example, tether attachment structure 102 may be thesame or similar to bumper 24 or sleeve 62, described above. In someembodiments, tether attachment structure 102 is integral with housingassembly 12, bumper 24, sleeve 62, intermediary tether adapter 92 orother battery components. In other embodiments, tether attachmentstructure 102 is a separate component part coupled to one or more ofthese components.

The tether attachment structure 102 may include a large centeral holediameter, or insertion slot 106, and two or more locking pockets 104. Insome embodiments, insertion slot 106 is in the center of the tetherattachment structure 102 (as shown). The large central hole diameterhole is referred to as an insertion slot 106 though other configurationsare possible (e.g., locating the insertion slot 106 away from thecenter).

Insertion slot 106 has a channel that communicates with the lockingpockets 104 and 105 to receive a tether key 112. When the tether batteryattachment structure 102 attaches to a battery, the holes provide quickaccess for a tether 110 and a tether key 112 to fit into the batteryattachment structure 102. The channel allows tether key 112 to move fromthe insertion slot 106 through the channel and to one of the two or morelocking pockets 104 and 105. The biasing element on the tether key 112creates a friction fit that secures the tether key 112 in the lockingpocket 104 or 105. Although described herein as a separate structure, itis to be understood that the battery housing assembly 12, bumper 24,battery sleeve 62, and/or the intermediary tether adapter 92 canincorporate the features of the battery attachment structure 102,described in detail below.

FIG. 22 shows a quick-connect tether-battery attachment system 100 forinsertion of a tether end or tether key 112 into one of two smallerlocking pockets 104 and 105. The tether attachment system 100 includesan outer surface coupled to the battery and a second outer surface thatopens to define the channel with the locking pockets 104 and 105 andinsertion slot 106. Once inserted into insertion slot 106 and slid intothe locking pocket 104 or 105, the battery is secured to tether 110through a friction fit (e.g., as illustrated in FIGS. 23-24 ). FIG. 22includes two locking pockets 104 and 105 to tether a battery forreplacement at overhead locations. As shown, locking pockets 104 and 105are located at the edge of the tether attachment structure 102 and havea smaller diameter than the insertion slot 106. The channel includes afirst end with a first locking pocket 104 and a second end with a secondlocking pocket 105. In some embodiments, the first locking pocket 104secures a first tether key 112 to the battery and a second lockingpocket 105 secures a second tether key 112 to the battery.

The insertion slot 106 is larger (e.g., has a larger diameter) than thelocking pockets 104 and 105 to accept the tether key 112 into the hole.Tether key 112 has a large center diameter 120 that creates a frictionfit in the locking pockets 104 and 105. The large center diameter 120slides through the insertion slot 106 through the channel and under andinto the locked pockets 104 and 105. The large center diameter 120 oftether key 112 restrains the tether 110 in the locking pocket 104 or 105through a friction fit with the upper surface of the tether attachmentstructure 102. As described below, a biasing member 122 may be used tocreate the friction fit that prevents the tether key 112 from slippingout of the locking pocket 104 and into the insertion slot 106.

FIG. 23 illustrates the quick-connect tether-battery attachment system100 in use with tether 110. The tether attachment structure 102 includesthree holes: an insertion slot 106, and two locking pockets 104 and 105.The tether key 112 is secured by sliding the key 112 through theinsertion slot 106 of the tether attachment structure 102 and lockingthe key 112 with a friction fit in one of the two locking pockets 104 or105. Tether key 112 is inserted into the tether attachment structure 102at the insertion slot 106. The lanyard or tether key 112 has a largercentral portion that fits in the insertion slot 106 but is too narrow toslide out of the smaller diameter of the locking pockets 104 and 105 oneither side of the insertion slot 106. The tether key 112 has a biasingelement that creates a friction fit against the upper surface of thesmaller diameter locking pockets 104 and 105. Tether attachmentstructure 102 includes a slot 108 for the tether 110 to exit the tetherattachment structure 102 when the tether key 112 is constrained in alocking pocket 104 or 105 and ensures that tether key 112 is tightlysecured.

FIG. 24 illustrates tether attachment structure 102 of FIGS. 22 and 23where tether key 112 is locked into a first locking pocket 104. As shownin FIG. 24 , a second locking pocket 105 remains available for a secondtether key 112 (not shown). Access to this second locking pocket 105 isadvantageous when the battery is being replaced, or when the battery isneeded for a different tool. The tether attachment structure 102 enablesquick connection of one or two tether keys 112 (e.g., at locking pockets104 and 105). This process enables the battery to be secured to thelanyard or tether 110 during operation and secured to a storage lanyardwhen depleted. Similarly, the operator can bring a charged battery andstore it using one of the locking pockets 104 or 105. When the batteryis deployed for operation, the additional tether 110 can attach tetherattachment structure 102 to the power tool tether 110. This processensures that at least one tether 110 remains secured to the battery atall times.

FIG. 25 illustrates the tether end or tether key 112 of a tether 110where a large center diameter 120 of tether key 112 can be inserted intotether attachment system 102 of FIGS. 22-24 . Tether key 112 includes abiasing element, illustrated as biasing member 122. Tether keys 112 havea large center diameter 120 that enables insertion into insertion slots106 of the tether attachment structure 102 but induces a friction fit inthe locking pockets 104 and 105. The large center diameter 120 is toolarge to slip out of the locking pockets 104 and 105 located on thesides of the tether attachment system 100. The top surface 124 of thetether key 112 may have a smaller diameter than the large centerdiameter 120. This shape may enable the locking pockets 104 and 105 toengage the tether key 112 and secure the tether 110 to the base of thetether attachment structure 102. A variety of shapes can be used toimplement this design, which is not limited to the configuration shown.For example, the cross-sectional shape of the tether key 112 could be atriangle, parallelogram, an octagon, or any other shape, so long as thelocking pockets 104 and 105 of tether attachment system 100 areconfigured to receive the tether key 112. This “lock and key”configuration (e.g., locking pockets 104 and 105 and tether key 112)between the tether attachment structure 102 and tether key 112 allowsfor the development of a wide variety of unique tether key 112 andtether attachment structure 102 shape configurations.

FIG. 25 illustrates biasing member 122 located underneath the tether key112 that secures the tether key 112 against the upper inner surface ofthe tether attachment structure 102. The biasing member 122 may be aloop of resilient material that pushes the tether key 112 into afriction fit in locking pocket 104 or 105. Biasing member 122 creates africtional force that secures the tether key 112 in a locked positionwithin locking pockets 104 or 105. The biasing member 122 also preventstether key 112 from dislocating out of the designed locking pocket 104and 105 locations.

To disengage the locking mechanism, an operator compresses the tetherkey 112 (e.g., pushes the tether key 112 down) and slides the key 112back to the insertion slot 106. In this location, the insertion slot 106is too large to restrain the large center diameter 120 of the tether key112. Biasing member 122 pushes tether key 112 through insertion slot 106and releases the tether key 112.

FIG. 26 illustrates another embodiment of a tether end or tether key136. Tether key 136 is substantially the same as tether key 112, exceptfor the differences discussed herein. In contrast to the resilient loopbiasing member 122 of tether key 112, tether key 136 includes acompression spring 133 internal to tether key 136. Spring 133 biases thetop surface 134 away from the bottom surface 132. When the operatorpushes the top surface 134 of the tether key 136, the spring 133compresses, and the height of the tether key 136 reduces. The compressedtether key 136 allows the large center diameter 130 section to slidefrom the insertion slot 106 into the locking pocket 104 or 105. When theoperator releases the compressed spring 133 of tether key 136 in lockingpocket 104 or 105, the spring 133 secures the tether key 136 against theupper inner surface of the tether attachment structure 102 creating afriction fit. Tether attachment structure 102 may include batteryhousing assembly 12, bumper 24, battery sleeve 62, intermediary tetheradapter 92, or the battery sides, top, or base. Top surface 134 andbottom surface 132 expand in locking pocket 104 or 105 to engage largecenter diameter 130 with the upper suface of the locking pocket 104 or105.

FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment of a tether end or tether key 146 forinsertion into tether attachment system 102. In this embodiment, topsurface 144 connects to bottom surface 145 of the tether key 146 at abiased angle (e.g., biased member 142 creates an angle between topsurface 144 and bottom surface 145). The angled surfaces create thebiased member 142 of tether key 146. The bottom surface 145 rotatesabout an angle with respect to top surface 144 and the biasing member142 causes rotation of the bottom surface 145 relative to top surface144 that generates the friction fit in locking pocket 104 or 105. As theoperator compresses the top surface 144 towards the bottom surface 145,the angle between the surfaces goes to zero, and the compressed tetherkey 146 can slide into the locking pocket 104 or 105. This configurationis similar to that in FIG. 26 , except that the surfaces are rotatedthrough a pivot. Similar to FIG. 26 , the friction fit causes thebiasing member 142 to secure the tether key 146 in the locked pocket 104or 105. Biased member 142 serves as the bottom surface 145 and has alarge center diameter 140. Thus bottom surface 145 has a large centerdiameter 140 than top surface 144, allowing biasing member 142 to lockwith a friction fit into locking pocket 104 or 105.

FIG. 28 illustrates a method 150 of battery attachment for an embodimentof a battery tether attachment system 100. In some embodiments, FIG. 28is a process of tethering the battery housing assembly 12 or sleeve 62using the quick attachment tethers 110 in an overhead workingenvironment. With reference to FIGS. 1-28 , the first step 152 involvesselecting the appropriate tether 50, 110 weight (for convenience “tether50”) based on the size and weight of the battery 10, 60 (for convenience“battery 10”). The second step 154 attaches a clip 48, such as a clasp,to secure the battery 10 to the tool tether 50. For example, battery 10may use a first locking pocket 104 of a tether attachment structure 102.In the third step 156, the operator selects the appropriate sleeve 62(e.g., housing assembly 12, tether receiver 18, 64, bumper 24,protrusion 28, sleeve 62, or intermediary tether adapter 92) for thebattery 10.

In the fourth step 158, the operator secures the tether 50 to thebattery sleeve 62. For example, tether key 112, 136,146 (for convenience“key 112”) is pushed into sleeve 62 securing the battery 10. Key 112 maybe biased to secure the key 112 in the locked position when the operatorslides key 112 into the locking pocket 104. In the fifth step 160, theoperator ensures that the tool is tethered to the lanyard and thebattery key 112 is attached to sleeve 62. In the sixth step 162, astorage carabiner to store charged batteries and exchange depletedbatteries at height is attached to the rail of the boom. In the seventhstep 164, the operator uses the tethered tools and battery.

To release the tether key 112 when the operator returns to ground, theoperator pushes down on the tether key 112, pulls back, and releases thetether key 112 from sleeve 62. This process ensures that the tool issecured to tether 50, and a battery key 112 is attached to the battery10 or sleeve 62. The tethers 50 can attach to the rail of the boom,e.g., through a carabiner or other securing device. This process enablesindependent tethering of tools and batteries during overhead operationsand ensures compliance with safety rules and regulations.

FIG. 29 shows various images related to tethering batteries. A battery172 is connected to a battery tether 174. The battery tether 174 may besecured to a tool tether 176. The tool tether 176 is tethered to a powertool, and the battery tether 174 attaches to the battery 172. Thebattery 172 may always be tethered either to the battery tether 174 onthe tool tether 176 or to a storage tether 178. The button 180 at theend of the battery tether 174 may engage a springed/biased slot 182 ofthe tether attachment structure.

It should be understood that the figures illustrate the exemplaryembodiments in detail, and it should be understood that the presentapplication is not limited to the details or methodology set forth inthe description or illustrated in the figures. It should also beunderstood that the terminology is for the purpose of description onlyand should not be regarded as limiting.

Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects ofthe invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view ofthis description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed asillustrative only. The construction and arrangements, shown in thevarious exemplary embodiments, are illustrative only. Although only afew embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, manymodifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions,structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values ofparameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors,orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novelteachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Someelements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple partsor elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwisevaried, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions maybe altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process, logicalalgorithm, or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according toalternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes,and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions andarrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing fromthe scope of the present invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A battery cradle, comprising: a power toolbattery; a sleeve configured to receive the battery and surround aportion of the battery; a clasp coupled to the sleeve, the claspmoveable between an open position and a closed position; a tetherreceiver located on at least one of the sleeve and the clasp, the tetherreceiver configured to be attached to a tether to secure the battery tothe tether; wherein, when the clasp is in the closed position, the claspoverlays a portion of the battery, securing the battery within thesleeve; and wherein, when the clasp is in the open position the claspdoes not overlay the portion of the battery, allowing removal of thebattery from the sleeve.
 2. The battery cradle of claim 1, the sleevecomprising a bumper.
 3. The battery cradle of claim 1, the claspcomprising a pin; wherein the clasp is coupled to the sleeve with a pin.4. The battery cradle of claim 3, the clasp further comprising a frontarm; wherein, when the clasp is in the closed position and the tetherreceiver is coupled to the pin, the front arm overlays the portion ofthe battery.
 5. A tether attachment system for a power tool battery,comprising: a power tool battery; a tether key comprising a biasingelement; and a tether attachment, the tether attachment comprising; achannel configured to receive the tether key; and two or more adjacentlocking pockets, wherein, when the tether key is moved from the channelinto the locking pocket, the biasing element creates a friction fit thatsecures the tether key in the locking pocket.
 6. The tether attachmentsystem of claim 5, the tether attachment further comprising a firstouter surface coupled to the power tool battery and a second outersurface that opens to define the channel.
 7. The tether attachmentsystem of claim 5, the channel comprising a first end with a firstlocking pocket and a second end with a second locking pocket; whereinthe tether key is a first tether key; wherein the first locking pocketsecures a first tether key and the second locking pocket secures asecond tether key.
 8. The tether attachment system of claim 5, the powertool battery comprising an outer housing; wherein the tether attachmentis integral with the outer housing of the power tool battery.
 9. Thetether attachment system of claim 5, wherein the tether attachment is aseparate component coupled to an outer surface of the power toolbattery.
 10. The tether attachment system of claim 5, the tether keyfurther comprising two angled surfaces; wherein the biasing elementrotates a first surface about an angle with respect to a second surface,the biasing element causing the rotation of the first surface relativeto the second surface and providing the friction fit in the lockingpocket.
 11. The tether attachment system of claim 5, wherein the biasingelement is a loop of resilient material that pushes the tether key intoa friction fit in the locking pocket; and wherein a compressive andsliding force removes the tether key from the locking pocket to releasethe tether key.
 12. The tether attachment system of claim 5, wherein thebiasing element is a compression spring internal to the tether key thatpushes the tether key into a friction fit in the locking pocket; andwherein a compressive and sliding force removes the tether key from thelocking pocket to release the tether key.
 13. The tether attachmentsystem of claim 5, wherein the tether attachment is coupled to a basesurface of the power tool battery.
 14. A tether attachment system for apower tool battery, comprising: a tether adapter comprising: a tetherreceiver configured to be attached to a tether; a first tool receiverconfigured to couple the tether adapter to a power tool and transmitelectrical power to the power tool; wherein the tether adapter isconfigured to engage electrical contacts of a power tool battery suchthat the tether adapter transmits electrical power between the firsttool receiver and the power tool battery.
 15. The tether attachmentsystem of claim 14, the tether attachment system further comprising thepower tool and the power tool battery; wherein the tether adapter iscoupled to the power tool and coupled to the power tool battery; andwherein the tether adapter couples the power tool to the power toolbattery.
 16. The tether attachment system of claim 15, the power toolbattery comprising a second tool receiver configured to receive thepower tool; and wherein the tether adapter is located between the powertool and the power tool battery such that the tether adapter is coupledto the second tool receiver of the power tool battery and the power toolis coupled to the first tool receiver of the tether adapter.
 17. Thetether attachment system of claim 15, the power tool battery comprisinga plurality of rails; wherein the tether adapter engages the pluralityof rails of the power tool battery when the tether adapter is coupled tothe power tool battery.
 18. The tether attachment system of claim 14,the tether adapter further comprising a front arm moveable between anopen position and a closed position; wherein, when the front arm is inthe closed position, the front arm is configured to overlay a portion ofthe power tool battery, securing the tether adapter to the power toolbattery; and wherein, when the front arm is in the open position, thefront arm is configured to not overlay the portion of the power toolbattery, allowing removal of the tether adapter from the power toolbattery.
 19. The tether attachment system of claim 18, wherein thetether receiver is located on the front arm.
 20. The tether attachmentsystem of claim 18, the tether adapter further comprising a pin;wherein, when the front arm is in the closed position, the front arm isconfigured to couple to the pin such that the pin prevents the front armfrom moving into the open position.